Module 25: Gear Changing - up (automatic transmission) (manual selection) 1. Maintain speed. 2. Select gear. 3. Replace hand to appropriate position on steering wheel. 4. Accelerate. Manual selection should only be necessary if a lower gear is required, in order to negotiate a steep decline. Note B: Gears should be changed, where possible, whilst travelling on a straight course. 46
Module 26: Gear Changing - down (automatic transmission) (manual selection) 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. Release accelerator pedal smoothly. 3. Brake if necessary to appropriate speed for circumstances. (Braking shall be completed before gear changing down) 4. Select gear. 5. Replace hand to appropriate position on steering wheel. If the speed of the vehicle increases considerably without application of the accelerator and if continuous use of the service brake is necessary, brake to the appropriate speed before a lower gear is engaged in order to minimise an increase in speed. Repeat this procedure, as necessary. Avoid selecting a lower gear to assist or replace braking, in order to reduce the speed of the vehicle. Note B: Gears should be changed, where possible, whilst travelling on a straight course. 47
Module 27: Following other vehicles 1. Obtain and where possible, maintain a minimum 2-second following distance. 2. Under adverse conditions such as rain, slippery surface, poor visibility or when being followed too closely, the following distance shall be increased. Should the applicant fail to maintain the minimum following distance of two (2) seconds he/she shall then be penalised every 5-8 seconds for: SPEED CONTROL (5) Fol. dist... 48
Module 28: Lane changing 1. Obey all road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 2. Check rear-view mirror(s) and appropriate blind spot. 3. Signal intention. 4. Check the appropriate blind spot. 5. Steer to selected lane, if safe. 6. Cancel signal. Changing lanes within an intersection should be avoided. Note B: Where more than one lane is changed in one movement, the appropriate blind spot shall be checked prior to crossing each lane-line. Note C: In the sketches below: Vehicle A shall be required to do a lane change. Vehicle B shall be required to do a blind spot check to the appropriate side. Should the driver of vehicle B fail to do a blind spot check, he/she shall be penalised for: STEERING (5) Obs... B B A A 49
Module 29: Stopping - in traffic (manual transmission) 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. Decelerate. 3. Brake timeously, smoothly and progressively without locking wheels and in complete control, keeping both hands on the steering wheel. 4. Disengage clutch just before vehicle is brought to a complete standstill, without laboring or stalling the engine. 5. Obtain and/or maintain clear space behind or alongside obstruction or road user, where applicable. (Approximately 4-5 metres behind the vehicle ahead) 6. Stop in accordance with road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 7. Apply parking brake, if necessary. 8. Select neutral, if necessary. The parking brake should be applied when stationary for any length of time or where there is a possibility of rolling, but may not be necessary depending upon traffic signs, stop/start progress of traffic and the gradient of the road. Note B: Neutral should be selected when stationary for any length of time, but this may not be necessary depending on traffic signals and stop/start progress of traffic. Should the applicant stop for a shorter period than it would take to apply the parking brake and select neutral, he/she shall not be penalised for failing to apply the parking brake and selecting neutral. Note C: If the vehicle is equipped with a foot-operated parking brake, the sequence shall be to select neutral with the service brake depressed and then to apply the parking brake. Note D: When coming to a stop, the brake pedal shall be depressed before disengaging the clutch in order to prevent coasting. This is not a requirement in stop-start traffic or when stopping on an incline. 50
Module 30: Stopping - in traffic (automatic transmission) 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. Decelerate. 3. Brake timeously, smoothly and progressively without locking wheels and in complete control, keeping both hands on the steering wheel. 4. Obtain and/or maintain a clear space behind or alongside obstruction or other road user, where applicable. (Approximately 4-5 metres behind the vehicle ahead) 5. Stop in accordance with road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 6. Maintain pressure on brake pedal. 7. Apply parking brake, if necessary. The parking brake should be applied when stationary for any length of time or where there is a possibility of rolling, but may not be necessary depending upon traffic signs, stop/start progress of traffic and the gradient of the road. Note B: If the vehicle is equipped with a foot-operated parking brake, the sequence shall be to select neutral with the service brake depressed and then to apply the parking brake. 51
Module 31: Stopping - for parking (manual transmission) 1. Check rear-view mirror(s) and appropriate blind spot. 2. Signal intention. 3. Check the appropriate blind spot, if applicable. 4. Position vehicle, if necessary. 5. Check rear-view mirror(s). 6. Decelerate. 7. Brake. 8. Disengage clutch just before vehicle is brought to a complete standstill, without laboring or stalling the engine. 9. Obtain and/or maintain a clear space behind or alongside obstruction or other road user, where applicable. 10. Stop in accordance with road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 11. Apply parking brake. 12. Select neutral. 13. Release clutch pedal. 14. Cancel signal and switch off accessories, if applicable. 15. Switch off engine. 16. Check rear-view mirrors and blind spots before opening doors. Turn the front wheels in the direction of the kerb as a precautionary measure to prevent the vehicle from moving, depending upon the gradient of the road. Note B: Having switched off engine an appropriate gear should be selected as a precautionary measure to prevent the vehicle from moving, depending upon the gradient of the road. This procedure is not recommended in the case of a diesel vehicle. Note C: If a turbo is fitted refer to operators manual. Note D: If the vehicle is equipped with a foot-operated parking brake the sequence shall be to select neutral, with service brake depressed and then to apply the parking brake. 52
Module 32: Stopping - for parking (automatic transmission) 1. Check rear-view mirror(s) and appropriate blind spot. 2. Signal intention. 3. Check the appropriate blind spot, if applicable. 4. Position vehicle, if necessary. 5. Check rear-view mirror(s). 6. Decelerate. 7. Brake. 8. Obtain and/or maintain a clear space behind or alongside obstruction or other road user, where applicable. 9. Stop in accordance with road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 10. Apply parking brake. 11. Select "P" position. 12. Cancel signal and switch off accessories, if applicable. 13. Switch off engine. 14. Check rear-view mirrors and blind spots before opening doors. Turn the front wheels in the direction of the kerb as a precautionary measure to prevent the vehicle from moving, depending upon the gradient of the road. Note B: If a turbo is fitted, refer to operators manual. Note C: If the vehicle is equipped with a foot-operated parking brake the sequence shall be to select neutral, with service brake depressed and then to apply the parking brake. 53
Module 33: Traffic control signals 1. Check rear view mirror(s) and appropriate blind spot, if applicable. 2. Signal intention, if necessary. 3. Obey traffic control signal. 4. Check rear view mirror(s), if necessary. 5. Decelerate or brake, if necessary. 6. Select gear, if necessary. 7. Stop, if necessary. 8. Select gear, if necessary. 9. Observe, if necessary. 10. Move off/proceed, if safe. Traffic control signals are directions given by police or traffic officers in uniform, members of a scholar patrol, road work-men, persons leading, riding or driving bovine animals, signal-men at level crossings and drivers of emergency vehicles sounding a device or bell. Note B: For traffic lights, see Modules 40-44. Note C: For scholar patrols, see Module 37. 54
Module 34: Intersections - turning left 1. Check rear-view mirror(s) and blind spot to the left. 2. Signal intention. 3. Obey all road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 4. Check blind spot to the left, if applicable. 5. Position vehicle in lane, if necessary. 6. Check rear-view mirror(s). 7. Decelerate, if necessary. 8. Brake, if necessary. 9. Select gear, if necessary. 10. Yield to pedestrians, if necessary. 11. Stop, if necessary. 12. Select gear, if necessary. 13. Observe, if applicable. 14. Move off/proceed, if necessary. 15. Check blind spot to the left, if applicable. 16. Steer into appropriate lane, obeying all road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 17. Accelerate as necessary. 18. Cancel signal. A blind spot check shall be made just before changing direction. Should the applicant have steered to the left before stopping, it is unnecessary to check the blind spot again after moving off. The observation for moving off shall be sufficient. 55
Module 35: Intersections - turning right 1. Check rear-view mirror(s) and blind spot to the right. 2. Signal intention. 3. Obey all road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 4. Check blind spot to the right, if applicable. 5. Position vehicle in lane, if necessary. 6. Check rear-view mirror(s). 7. Decelerate, if necessary. 8. Brake, if necessary. 9. Select gear, if necessary. 10. Yield to approaching traffic and/or pedestrians, if necessary. 11. Stop, if necessary. (Ensure that wheels are straight where possible or applicable) 12. Select gear, if necessary. 13. Observe, if applicable. 14. Move off/proceed, if necessary. 15. Check blind spot to the right, if applicable. 16. Steer into appropriate lane, obeying all road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 17. Accelerate as necessary. 18. Cancel signal. Position vehicle as close as possible towards centre of intersection prior to turning with due safety and consideration for approaching vehicles. Note B: Should the traffic signal change the vehicle waiting within such intersection shall be given the opportunity to leave, when safe to do so. Note C : A blind spot check shall be made just before changing direction. Should the applicant have steered to the right before stopping, it is unnecessary to check the blind spot again after moving off. The observation for moving off shall be sufficient. 56
Module 36: Intersections - proceeding straight 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. Obey all traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 3. On approach, look right, left and ahead for cross traffic, approaching traffic and/or pedestrians. 4. Select gear, if necessary. 5. Proceed. It is not necessary for the driver to turn his/her head to look right and left when he/she has a clear view of the intersection or when approaching public entrances and exits, such as filling stations and shopping centres. Note B: The applicant shall be penalised should he/she only check to the right and left after entering the intersection or passing public entrances and exits, such as filling stations and shopping centres. 57
Module 37: Intersections - stop signs 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. Decelerate. 3. Brake. 4. Stop. 5. Apply parking brake, if necessary. 6. Select neutral, if necessary. At a four-way stop, yield to pedestrians and vehicles, which arrived at the intersection first. Note B: At a scholar patrol crossing, only proceed when the stop sign has been removed and if safe to do so. 58
Module 38: Intersections - yield signs 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. On approach, look right, left and ahead for cross traffic, approaching traffic and/or pedestrians. 3. Decelerate, if necessary. 4. Brake, if necessary. 5. Select appropriate gear, if necessary. 6. Proceed, if safe. 7. Stop, if necessary. 8. Apply parking brake, if applicable. 9. Select neutral, if applicable. 10. Select gear, if necessary. 11. Observe, if applicable. 12. Release parking brake, if applicable. 13. Move off, if safe. 59
Module 39: Intersections - uncontrolled 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. On approach, look right, left and ahead for cross traffic, approaching traffic and/or pedestrians. 3. Decelerate, if necessary. 4. Brake, if necessary. 5. Select appropriate gear, if necessary. 6. Proceed, if safe. 7. Stop, if necessary. 8. Apply parking brake, if applicable. 9. Select neutral, if applicable. 10. Select gear, if necessary. 11. Observe, if applicable. 12. Release parking brake, if applicable. 13. Move off, if safe. 60
Module 40: Intersections - traffic lights (flashing red) 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. Decelerate. 3. Brake. 4. Stop. 5. Apply parking brake, if necessary. 6. Select neutral, if necessary. A flashing red arrow indicates that traffic may proceed in that direction after having stopped and ensuring that it is safe to do so, subject to the right of way of pedestrians and vehicular traffic lawfully within the intersection. 61
Module 41: Intersections - traffic lights (steady red) 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. Decelerate. 3. Brake. 4. Stop. 5. Apply parking brake, if necessary. 6. Select neutral, if necessary. A flashing green arrow in conjunction with a steady red, indicates that traffic may proceed in the direction of the arrow subject to the right of way of pedestrians and vehicular traffic lawfully within the intersection. 62
Module 42: Intersections - traffic lights (green) 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. On approach, look right, left and ahead for cross traffic, approaching traffic and/or pedestrians. 3. Check blind spot, if applicable. 4. Position vehicle, if necessary. 5. Check rear-view mirror(s), if necessary. 6. Brake, if necessary. 7. Select gear, if necessary. 8. Stop, if necessary. 9. Observe, if applicable. 10. Move off/proceed, if safe. A flashing green arrow in conjunction with a steady red, indicates that traffic may proceed in the direction of the arrow subject to the right of way of pedestrians and vehicular traffic lawfully within the intersection. Note B: A steady green arrow indicates that traffic may proceed in that direction subject to the right of way of pedestrians and vehicular traffic lawfully within the intersection. 63
Module 43: Intersections - traffic lights (flashing amber) 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. On approach, look right, left and ahead for cross traffic, approaching traffic and/or pedestrians. 3. Decelerate, if necessary. 4. Brake, if necessary. 5. Select appropriate gear, if necessary. 6. Proceed, if safe. 7. Stop, if necessary. 8. Apply parking brake, if applicable. 9. Select neutral, if applicable. 10. Select gear, if necessary. 11. Observe, if applicable. 12. Release parking brake, if applicable. 13. Move off, if safe. Right of way shall be given to traffic which was first to stop. 64
Module 44: Intersections - traffic lights (steady amber) 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. Decelerate. 3. Brake. 4. Stop. 5. Apply parking brake, if necessary. 6. Select neutral, if necessary. The vehicle shall be brought to a controlled stop unless it is so close to the stop line when the amber light appears that it cannot safely be brought to a stop behind the stop line or if stopping would endanger other road users. 65
Module 45: Intersections - roundabout (traffic circle) 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. Obey all road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 3. Yield to traffic from the right and/or pedestrians, unless otherwise directed by road traffic signs or signals. 4. Decelerate, if necessary. 5. Brake, if necessary. 6. Select appropriate gear, if necessary. 7. Proceed, if safe. 8. Stop, if necessary. 9. Apply parking brake, if necessary. 10. Select neutral, if necessary. 11. Select gear, if necessary. 12. Observe, if applicable. 13. Release parking brake, if applicable. 14. Move off, if safe. If intending to take the first exit from the roundabout, the signal (left) shall be activated on the approach to the roundabout. When intending to leave the roundabout at any subsequent exit, the signal (left) shall be activated in good time prior to such exit. (When the signal has been activated the first exit shall be taken) Note B: MINI-CIRCLE (i) (ii) In the case of a mini-circle in an intersection, a signal to the left or the right, depending on the intended direction of travel, shall be given. When no change of direction is intended, no signal is necessary. Right of way shall be given to traffic crossing the yield line first. 66
Module 46: Block pedestrian crossing - uncontrolled 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. On approach, look left and right for pedestrians crossing or intending to cross. 3. Decelerate, if necessary. 4. Brake, if necessary. 5. Select appropriate gear, if necessary. 6. Proceed, if safe. 7. Stop, if necessary. 8. Apply parking brake, if necessary. 9. Select neutral, if necessary. 10. Select gear, if necessary. 11. Observe, if applicable. 12. Release parking brake, if applicable. 13. Move off, if safe. 67
Module 47: Level crossings - guarded 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. On approach, look to right and left for rail traffic. 3. Decelerate, if necessary. 4. Brake, if necessary. 5. Select appropriate gear, if necessary. 6. Proceed, if safe. 7. Stop, if necessary. 8. Apply parking brake, if necessary. 9. Select neutral, if necessary. 10. Select gear, if necessary. 11. Observe, if applicable. 12. Release parking brake, if applicable. 13. Move off, if safe. 68
Module 48: Level crossings - unguarded 1. Check rear-view mirror(s). 2. On approach, look to right and left for rail traffic. 3. Decelerate, if necessary. 4. Brake, if necessary. 5. Select appropriate gear, if necessary. 6. Proceed, if safe. 7. Stop, if necessary, at a safe distance or at least 5 metres from the nearest rail. 8. Apply parking brake, if necessary. 9. Select neutral, if necessary. 10. Select gear, if necessary. 11. Observe, if applicable. 12. Release parking brake, if applicable. 13. Move off, if safe. 69
Module 49: Overtaking - to the left of a hazard 1. Obtain a safe following/approaching distance. 2. Obey all road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 3. Check blind spot to the left, if applicable. 4. Steer and position vehicle towards the left without moving any further than necessary for maximum visibility, if applicable. 5. Check rear-view mirror(s) and blind spot to the left. 6. Signal intention. 7. Check rear-view mirror(s), if applicable. 8. Brake, if necessary. 9. Select gear, if necessary. 10. Check blind spot to the left. 11. Steer further to the left, if safe, to allow safe clear space between vehicle and hazard. 12. Cancel signal. 13. Accelerate, if necessary. 14. Check mirror(s) and blind spot to the right before signalling if intending to return to the right. Adequate clear space shall be obtained before returning. 70
Module 50: Overtaking - to the right of a hazard 1. Obtain a safe following/approaching distance. 2. Obey all road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 3. Check blind spot to the right, if applicable. 4. Steer and position vehicle towards the right without moving any further than necessary for maximum visibility, if applicable. 5. Check rear-view mirror(s) and blind spot to the right. 6. Signal intention. 7. Check rear-view mirror(s), if applicable. 8. Brake, if necessary. 9. Select gear, if necessary. 10. Check blind spot to the right. 11. Steer further to the right, if safe, to allow safe clear space between vehicle and hazard. 12. Cancel signal. 13. Accelerate, if necessary. 14. Check mirror(s) and blind spot to the left before signalling if intending to return to the left. Adequate clear space shall be obtained before returning. 71
Module 51: Being Overtaken - on the left-hand side 1. Check rear-view mirror(s) and blind spot to the right. 2. Steer and position vehicle in centre of traffic lane or as far right as is safe. 3. Do not accelerate whilst being overtaken. An applicant shall not be penalised should he/she fail to drive in the left lane of a multi-lane road, (in one direction) except on a freeway. 72
Module 52: Being Overtaken - on the right-hand side 1. Check rear-view mirror(s) and blind spot to the left. 2. Steer and position vehicle in centre of traffic lane or as far left as is safe. 3. Do not accelerate whilst being overtaken. Should the applicant cause his/her vehicle to increase speed, whilst being overtaken on the right-hand side, on a roadway with two-way traffic, a circle shall be drawn around the black block VIOLATION OF TRAFFIC LAW and test discontinued. 73
Module 53: Freeways - entering 1. Select appropriate lane of the on-ramp. 2. Check rear-view mirror(s) and appropriate blind spot. 3. Signal intention, if applicable. 4. Accelerate, if necessary. 5. Check rear-view mirror(s), if applicable. 6. Decelerate, if necessary. 7. Brake, if necessary. 8. Yield in accordance with traffic pattern, road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 9. Stop, if necessary. 10. Select gear, if necessary. 11. Observe, if applicable. 12. Move off/proceed, if necessary. 13. Check the necessary blind spots. 14. Merge with traffic and obtain sufficient clear space. 15. Cancel signal. Drive between edge lines of the on-ramp. Note B: Do not overtake on a single lane on-ramp. Note C: A left and right blind spot check shall be done upon entering a freeway. Note D: Additional blind spot checks for a safe gap may be necessary. 74
Module 54: Freeways - exiting 1. Obey all road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. 2. Check rear-view mirror(s) and appropriate blind spot. 3. Signal intention. 4. Check blind spots to the right and left. 5. Maintain speed where possible and enter off-ramp. 6. Cancel signal. 7. Check rear-view mirror(s). 8. Decelerate, if necessary. Drive between edge lines of the off-ramp. Note B: Do not overtake on a single lane off-ramp. 75
Module 55: Freeways - passing off and on ramps Off - ramp: 1. On approach check rear-view mirror(s). 2. Check appropriate blind spot(s). On - ramp: 1. On approach check rear-view mirror(s). 2. Check appropriate blind spot. 3. Adjust speed and position to facilitate entry of vehicles about to join freeway, if necessary. Should the applicant not check the blind spot when passing an off ramp or on ramp, the error shall be marked for: FREEWAYS Ent Ex (5) Bl. Sp............ 10 76
Module 56: Emergency Stop 1. Apply service brake upon instruction to stop. 2. Bring vehicle to a stop in a controlled manner within the shortest possible distance. The applicant shall be requested to stop the vehicle in a safe place at the side of the road. The examiner shall inform the applicant of the following: As soon as it is safe to do so he/she will be given the instruction Stop The vehicle shall be brought to a complete standstill in the shortest possible distance as in an emergency, e.g. a child running into the road. The instruction will not be given if there is following or approaching traffic. Note B: The instruction to stop shall only be given whilst proceeding on a straight road at a speed higher than 20 km/h but not exceeding 40km/h. Note C: The applicant shall not be requested to repeat the emergency stop if carried out satisfactorily the first time. Note D: The applicant shall release pressure on the brake pedal as necessary if the wheels should lock. Note E: Should the vehicle not deviate from a straight course and a stop is not regarded as an emergency stop the error shall be penalised for: EMERGENCY STOP (5) Stop...... 5 and a 2 nd (final) attempt will be allowed. Note F: Should the applicant lock the wheels and the vehicle not deviate from a straight course the error shall be penalised for: EMERGENCY STOP (5) Con. stop...... 5 and a 2 nd (final) attempt shall be allowed. Note G: The applicant shall be informed that he/she will not be requested to repeat the emergency stop. Note H: Should the applicant depress the clutch pedal or not, it will be regarded as an Emergency Stop. 77
7. GLOSSARY 78
Feature Definition Qualification Acceleration Actual time Approaching distance Attempt Blind spots Braking Bumps kerb Cancel signal Clear space Clutch... control Clutch... coasting Act of causing the vehicle to gain speed by depressing the accelerator. The actual time of the day in hours and minutes, when the yard and/or road test commenced. The distance from which the over-taking procedure is commenced in order to pass a stationary or moving hazard. A single effort in one direction starting from an indicated position moving completely into another indicated area. Areas on either side of a vehicle not visible to a driver even with the aid of rear-view mirrors. Act of causing a vehicle to reduce speed by application of the service-brake. (Foot-brake) When a wheel, tyre or any part of a vehicle comes into contact with the kerb. See Signal... cancel Areas surrounding the vehicle which allow manoeuvring room in which to take evasive action, if necessary. Using the clutch pedal to obtain clutch contact point, also known as friction point. See Coasting Accelerator should be depressed smoothly and progressively to avoid sudden and harsh acceleration which results in uneven jerky movements. The examiner shall enter this time on the test report in the applicable block. The higher the speed, the greater the distance required from the stationary or moving hazard, when the overtaking procedure is commenced. In the case of parallel parking, two additional movements shall be allowed, once the vehicle is at least partially within a parking bay, but without leaving the parking bay completely during these two movements. Blind spots can only be eliminated by turning the head sufficiently in order to observe areas not otherwise visible - i.e. by looking over the shoulder to the left or right. The service/foot brake should be applied timeously, smoothly and progressively using the right foot, without locking wheels while keeping both hands on the steering wheel in order that the vehicle is kept under control. Braking should, where possible, be applied on a straight course. A lower gear shall not be selected in order to replace or assist braking to reduce the speed of the vehicle. When braking is necessary it shall be completed before selecting a lower gear. Clear space should be ensured around the vehicle when passing, overtaking, following, merging or stopping behind or alongside vehicles or objects. This is when the fly-wheel, clutch/driven plate and pressure plate meet, which transfers engine power to the rest of the transmission in order to move. The clutch pedal should be released smoothly in order to obtain contact point without jerking. Clutch control shall be obtained for moving off and when changing gears. 79
Feature Definition Qualification... disengage See Disengage...rides Resting the foot on the clutch pedal whilst vehicle is in motion or keeping the clutch depressed whilst the vehicle is stationary for any length of time. Since it causes excessive wear it should be restricted to situations requiring extremely slow speed such as for parking, stop-start traffic or where it could be justified.... slips Holding the clutch at the friction point so that the power from the engine is only partially transmitted to the wheels. Since it causes abnormal wear it should be restricted to situations requiring extremely slow speed such as for parking, stop-start traffic or where it could be justified. Coasting Collision Controlled stop Counter steer Cutting Dangerous actions Decelerate Disengage Driving position Driving a vehicle with the clutch depressed or in neutral, disconnecting the engine from the driving wheels. Touching any moving or stationary hazard with a vehicle. Bringing a vehicle to a complete standstill, maintaining a straight course. See Steering... counter steer See Steering... cutting See Uncontrolled/Dangerous action Causing a vehicle to reduce speed by releasing the accelerator only. Depressing the clutch pedal to disconnect the engine from the transmission. The position directly behind the steering wheel which enables a driver to operate the controls of a vehicle safely and efficiently. Since it reduces control of the vehicle and could cause undue wear of the clutch release bearing, it should be restricted to short distances just before coming to a standstill, where it could be justified. Neutral shall never be selected whilst the vehicle is in motion. Should any obstacle/object be touched, other than that for the specific manoeuvre being conducted, it shall be regarded as a collision. Both hands should be on the steering wheel. Should the vehicle deviate from a straight course and corrective action is taken it is regarded as a controlled stop. Release pressure on the brake pedal as necessary if the wheels should lock. The accelerator should be released timeously and gradually to ensure smooth reduction of speed. The clutch pedal should be depressed timeously and completely in order to select a gear or bring the vehicle to a standstill without stalling or laboring the engine. The distance from the steering wheel should preferably enable the knee to be slightly bent when the clutch is fully depressed. The arms should be slightly bent when the hands are placed in the twelve o'clock position on the steering wheel. 80
Feature Definition Qualification Duration Emergency Stop Examiner Fast Following distance Gear changing Gear... automatic transmission The rounded off time of the Stopwatch time to full minutes for both the yard and road tests. Act of bringing a vehicle to a complete standstill, in the shortest possible distance. An examiner for driving licences as contemplated in the Road Traffic Act. See Too fast The safe space to be maintained between one vehicle following another. Selecting of the gear which will allow the engine to operate at efficient RPM whilst the road speed of the vehicle suits the situation. A motor vehicle not fitted with a device known as a clutch to enable the vehicle to be put into motion from a stationary position. Yard test - The time in seconds recorded in the Stopwatch block shall be ignored. Road test - The time in seconds recorded in the Stopwatch block shall be rounded off to the next full minute. The foot/service brake should be applied as quickly as possible and the vehicle brought to a controlled stop in the shortest possible distance. Both hands shall remain on the steering wheel until stationary. Should the vehicle deviate from a straight course and corrective action is taken it is regarded as a controlled stop. A person who has been appropriately trained, graded, registered and appointed as an examiner for driving licences. It is determined when the rear of the vehicle ahead passes a fixed reference point - e.g.: lamp post, road sign, mark on the road etc., by the driver of the vehicle directly behind counting "2001, 2002". The front of the vehicle should not reach the same point of reference before this count is completed. Under adverse conditions such as rain, slippery surface, poor visibility, etc. the distance should be increased. The appropriate gear should be selected before moving off and before negotiating a hazard in order that the necessary acceleration can be applied. A lower gear should be selected to minimise the increase of vehicle speed on a decline or to maintain a suitable speed on an incline. The appropriate gear should be selected smoothly without grating and in accordance with engine speed, whilst keeping the eyes on the road. Having completed gear selection, the hand shall be returned to the steering wheel, and the foot then removed from the clutch pedal. Where possible gears should be selected whilst the vehicle is on a straight course. If braking is necessary, it should be completed before selecting a lower gear. 81
Feature Definition Qualification Gear... manual transmission Hazard In good time Intersection Lane changing Loss of control Maximum rearview vision Minor defects Mirrors Mounts kerb A motor vehicle fitted with a device known as a clutch, in order to put the vehicle into motion from a stationary position. Vehicles, persons, animals, objects or substances which may cause damage or injury and may necessitate changing speed and/or direction. See Signal... in good time A junction of two or more streets or roads meeting one another at any angle, whether or not one road crosses the other. Changing position of a vehicle on a roadway from one lane to another by means of steering. A situation when a driver has no influence over the speed or direction of a vehicle. Optimum vision directly to the rear and to the left and right rear of a vehicle. Defects which occurred to the vehicle whilst on route to the driving licence testing centre. A device to assist the driver to have a view to the rear. When at least one or more wheels of the vehicle is not in contact with the road surface but is on the kerb or sidewalk. Moving hazards constitute vehicles, persons, animals etc. Fixed hazards constitute intersections, traffic circles, lamp posts, trees, curves, potholes, rain, dust, smoke etc. A road, meeting a traffic circle or roads meeting one another at any angle are regarded as intersections. Lanes should only be changed after observation and the appropriate signal has been given. Excessive speed, erratic or harsh steering, braking or acceleration causing a vehicle to deflect from a straight course or the wheels to skid without corrective action being effective. Rear vision shall be optimised by adjusting the interior rear view mirror to give the most complete picture of the traffic situation to the rear through the rear window. The exterior mirrors shall be adjusted so that a small portion of the rear-most part of the body of the vehicle is visible in the inner side of the mirror. Tyres, brakes and steering defects shall not be regarded as minor defects. Should a vehicle have a centrally situated interior rear view mirror with a clear view to the rear, it will not be necessary to look into the outside mirrors when the use of mirror(s), is required. Should the driver not have a clear view in the centrally fitted interior rear view mirror or has no such mirror fitted, the exterior side rear view mirror(s) shall be used. 82
Feature Definition Qualification Moving off Needless Observe Obstacles Obstructions Overtaking Parking brake Physical disability Positioning of vehicle Release mechanism To set a vehicle into motion from a stationary position. See Stopping... needless To look in all directions for hazards and potential hazards. Passing a stationary or moving hazard travelling in the same direction. Known as the handbrake or a device used in the ordinary course of events to keep a vehicle stationary. A physical feature of a driver which may prevent the safe control of a vehicle. Placing a vehicle in the safest location on a roadway in relation to an actual or potential hazard and in compliance with road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. A device whereby the parking brake or the seat belt buckle of a vehicle can be released. Only when safe and in accordance with road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings, move the vehicle from a stationary position smoothly and progressively and without engine laboring. Ensure there is clear space beyond an intersection. Ensure an intersection is clear before entering. Observation includes the use of mirrors and blind spot checks to determine whether it is safe to the rear, front and sides. Observation can commenced from either the left or right blind spot. Eyes shall not be taken from the road unnecessarily. Equipment being use to demarcate manoeuvres. Vehicles, persons, animals, objects or substances which may cause damage or injury and may necessitate changing speed and/or direction. Obstructions could be inside or outside a vehicle. Passing oncoming traffic is not regarded as overtaking. To be applied using the release mechanism when parked or stopped for any length of time, or where there is a possibility of rolling. The parking brake should not be applied while the vehicle is in motion except in the case of a service brake failure. To determine whether the vehicle will remain stationary with the parking brake applied, the service brake should be released slowly. A disability necessitating a vehicle to be specially adapted, or the driver to make use of an aid in order that the controls can be operated efficiently and the vehicle driven safely. When changing from one longitudinal position to another where there are no road traffic markings, the same procedure as for lane changing shall be followed. The release mechanism shall be used when applying the parking brake to avoid wear or strain. 83
Feature Definition Qualification Riding clutch Roll Seat Signal... cancel See Clutch... riding Uncontrolled motion of the vehicle from a stationary position. See Driving position Discontinuing a driving signal once a manoeuvre has been completed or presence has been established. By roll, it is meant, a movement of the vehicle in the direction opposite to that which was intended.... driving Means of warning other road users of intention or presence.... in good time Sufficient time to enable other road users to react, if necessary, to the given signal before the manoeuvre is carried out. Driving signals are direction indicators, horn, brake lights, headlamps and hand signals. Rear-view mirrors and/or blind spots, when applicable, shall be checked before activating the signal. Signals shall not be given too early which could result in them being misinterpreted or misleading.... sufficient duration Slipping clutch Slow Steering... counter steer A period long enough to enable other road users to react to the signal if necessary. See Clutch... slipping See Too slow Turning the steering wheel in a direction opposite to the direction of travel so that the wheels are at least straight immediately prior to coming to a standstill. Counter steering shall be applied to avoid wear to tyres and the steering mechanism, and to complete a manoeuvre with greater ease. The steering wheel shall not be turned whilst the vehicle is stationary.... cutting Steering of a vehicle in such a manner when negotiating a bend or corner that it may result in touching the kerb, shoulder of the roadway or lane marking when turning to the left or encroaching onto the right-hand portion of the roadway when turning to the right.... position See Positioning of vehicle 84
Feature Definition Qualification... method (push-and-pull) Turning the steering wheel without crossing hands. Procedure for steering to the left: Position hands on steering wheel in a ten-totwo or quarter-to-three position with palms of hands and thumbs on circumference of steering wheel, the left hand grips and pulls the wheel smoothly downwards whilst the right hand moves downwards along the circumference of steering wheel but not further than the six-thirty position. The right hand then grips and pushes upwards, whilst the left hand slides upwards, but not beyond the twelve o clock point, in order to grip and pull downwards, if necessary. It may be necessary to repeat these movements until the desired turn is achieved. Procedure for steering to the right: The same method is used but the first steering movement will be the right hand pulling down, as described in steering to the left. Counter steering should be used where necessary. The steering wheel shall not be turned whilst the vehicle is stationary.... straddles Driving a vehicle without reason with the wheels upon, over or on either side of the road traffic markings which demarcate any side of a traffic lane.... wanders Allowing a vehicle to deviate from an straight course or to move unnecessarily to the left or right on the roadway.... wide Steering of a vehicle in such a manner when negotiating a bend or corner that it may, unless unavoidable, result in touching the kerb unless unavoidable, shoulder of the roadway or lane marking when turning to the right, or encroaching onto the right-hand portion of the roadway when turning left. Stopping Act of bringing a vehicle to a complete standstill. Stopping should be smooth and progressive and in accordance with road traffic signs, signals, rules and markings. Obtain and/or retain a clear space behind or alongside obstruction or other road user. In the case of an emergency stop the foot brake shall be applied as quickly as possible and the vehicle brought to a controlled stop in the shortest possible distance. Both hands shall remain on the steering wheel until stationary. 85
Feature Definition Qualification... needless Bringing a vehicle to a standstill in the absence of any road traffic sign, signal, instruction, hazard or potential hazard. Stopwatch A timing device to determine the duration of the test. (Cellphones may not be used for this purpose) Stopwatch time means, the total time recorded in minutes and seconds on the stopwatch for both the yard and the road tests. The examiner shall enter this time on the test report in the applicable blocks. Straddles Sufficient duration Too fast Too slow Traffic control signals Uncontrolled/ Dangerous action Vehicle position Waits too long Wanders Warning lights and gauges Wide See Steering... straddles See Signal... sufficient duration Driving at a speed which is too high to be safe for conditions. Driving at a speed as to hinder or obstruct the safe flow of traffic. Traffic control signals are directions given by police or traffic officers, in uniform, members of a scholar patrol, road work men, persons leading, riding or driving bovine animals, signal-men at level crossings and drivers of emergency vehicles sounding a device or bell. Any act which results or could result in damage, injury or loss of control of the vehicle. See Positioning of vehicle Not utilising safe opportunities to proceed, merge with cross-traffic or enter intersections. See Steering... wanders Devices used to monitor various engine functions and vehicle systems. See Steering... wide Speed should be in accordance with potential hazards and not necessarily in accordance with the traffic pattern or speed limits. Speed lower than the speed limit can also, in some cases, be too fast. Speed, which might be slower than speed limits, could however, be in accordance with potential hazards and not necessarily in accordance with the traffic pattern. The driver shall be in full control of the vehicle at all times. Operation of warning lights and gauges to be checked for malfunction with ignition switched on, before starting engine. After starting engine, operation shall be rechecked for malfunction of systems which are monitored. 86
8. TECHNICAL DATA 87
REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO THE TECHNICAL DATA 1. A 1 metre clear-space shall be required around each yard test manoeuvre. 2. All positions for obstacles shall be clearly marked. 88
INCLINE START 1m STOP SIGN AND STOP LINE (300mm WIDE) 1m FROM THE CREST A MINIMUM GRADIENT FOR INCLINE 1:15 AND NOT EXCEEDING 1:10 STOP SIGN AND STOP LINE (300mm WIDE) 1m FROM THE CREST a b EXAMPLE IF b = 10m AND a = 666mm GRADIENT = 1:15 IF b = 10m AND a = 1000mm GRADIENT = 1:10 NOTE: 1. PAINTED LINES - COLOUR OF CHOICE. 2. STOP LINE TO BE 300mm WIDE. 3. ALL OTHER PAINTED LINES TO BE 100mm.
PARALLEL PARKING 0.1m 0.1m 2.5m PROVIDE 6x OBSTACLES OBSTACLES PLACED VERTICALLY ON THE LINE NO PART OF THE OBSTACLE OR BASE ALLOWED IN THE MARKED AREA MINIMUM HEIGHT 1.5m DIAMETER OF OBSTACLE 50-150mm NON METAL 1m 0.5m 0.6m 5m 0.1m (INSIDE DIMENSION) 0.1m OBSTACLE 7m (INSIDE DIMENSION) NOTE: 1. PAINTED LINES - COLOUR OF CHOICE. 2. ALL PAINTED LINES TO BE 100mm. 2.6m 0.1m 2.7m 1.3m 1.3m 0.4m KERB FACE HEIGHT MINIMUM 50mm MAXIMUM 200mm PAINTED LINES 100mm WIDE MARKED STARTING BLOCK LINES 100mm WIDE 5.2m
0.1m 0.1m 2.5m 0.1m ALLEY DOCKING 5m (INSIDE DIMENSION) 0.5m 1m 0.1m 3.067m R = 6m 3.067m 6m (INSIDE DIMENSION) 3m 0.1m 16.5m 3.067m 3.067m OBSTACLE 1.25m 1.25m 2.5m 0.1m 0.1m 3.067m PROVIDE 13x OBSTACLES OBSTACLES PLACED VERTICALLY ON THE LINE R = 6m NO PART OF THE OBSTACLE OR BASE ALLOWED IN THE MARKED AREA 3.067m MINIMUM HEIGHT 1.5m DIAMETER OF OBSTACLE 50-150mm NON METAL 0.5m 1m NOTA: 1. PAINTED LINES - COLOUR OF CHOICE. 2. ALL PAINTED LINES TO BE 100mm.
TURN IN THE ROAD 9m (INSIDE DIMENSION) KERB FACE HEIGHT 50mm MINIMUM 200mm MAXIMUM KERB FACE HEIGHT 50mm MINIMUM 200mm MAXIMUM PAINTED LINE 100mm WIDE 0.1m BROKEN PAINTED LINE 100mm WIDE AND 500-1500mm IN LENGTH 12m (INSIDE DIMENSION) 0.1m 0.1m 1m 5m STARTING POINT 0.5m 2.5m PAINTED LINE 100mm WIDE 0.1m 0.1m NOTE: 1. PAINTED LINES - COLOUR OF CHOICE. 2. ALL PAINTED LINES TO BE 100mm.